Daren Smith

Daren Smith

Provo, Utah
Indie Film Producer, Author, Creative Entrepreneur. GP at Producer Fund, Founder of Craftsman Films
28
Apr
Structuring Your Waterfall: Why "Less Risk" Isn't Always Better

Structuring Your Waterfall: Why "Less Risk" Isn't Always Better

Recently I shared a blog post about film investment structures and received some enlightening feedback that made me take another
5 min read
21
Apr
Only Oversubscribed Films Generate Profit

Only Oversubscribed Films Generate Profit

"How do you make money with independent films?" As someone who's produced multiple features and raised
3 min read
14
Apr
Does Proximity Increase Demand?

Does Proximity Increase Demand?

Theater chains sure seem to think so...
7 min read
07
Apr
Why We Invest In Stories

Why We Invest In Stories

Every transformative story exists because of two people: someone who believed it needed to be told, and someone who believed
2 min read
31
Mar
The Basics - How Indie Film Works

The Basics - How Indie Film Works

"How does independent film actually work as an investment?" After producing multiple features and helping dozens of investors
4 min read
24
Mar
How Much To Invest In An Indie Film

How Much To Invest In An Indie Film

"We need $1 million to make this movie." If you're an investor, you've heard
2 min read
21
Mar
March 2025 Live Call - Replay

March 2025 Live Call - Replay

2 min read
17
Mar
Why Film Investors and Filmmakers Need an Email List

Why Film Investors and Filmmakers Need an Email List

I've seen countless talented filmmakers with brilliant projects fail for a reason that had nothing to do with
5 min read
10
Mar
The Future Of Indie Film Distribution?

The Future Of Indie Film Distribution?

Every day I see filmmakers lamenting the state of the industry, and begging for Hollywood to change. I'm
3 min read
03
Mar
The Domino Principle for Filmmakers

The Domino Principle for Filmmakers

or, How Sean Baker got his groove back...
4 min read